LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – In 2025 alone, more than 400,000 meals were delivered by roughly 1,800 Lubbock Meals on Wheels volunteers.
Its executive director, Lisa Gilliland, says 2026 is keeping that pace.
“It’s been a busy start to the year,” Gilliland said. “We have new clients coming on board. As you know, Lubbock is growing. People are getting older and people want to stay in their own homes. We’re there to help them do that by keeping them well-fed and independent.“
The nonprofit currently has 77 routes all over Lubbock to make sure that statement holds true. Starting May 4th, three more will be added in the central Lubbock area.
Only 18 people can accommodated per route. Gilliland says because more volunteers have stepped up in south and west Lubbock, the need has only grown in the busiest part of the city.
“Having a little breathing room in that area will be helpful to us and it’s an easy location for our volunteers to get to,” Gilliland said. “With it being an average of 12 miles, some of these routes aren’t even going to be that long.”
Meals are picked up between 10:45 and 11:15 in the morning on weekdays. After completing a background check and a one hour orientation, you’ll be able to deliver as much as your schedule allows. You can also sign up to take on other volunteer opportunities such as kitchen aid.
“For many of our clients, the volunteer may be the only person they see that day,” Gilliland said. “The hot, nutritious meal of course is important to their health and well-being, but that daily human contact, a visit from a friendly volunteer, is equally important. The best part is it only takes an hour.”
Lubbock Meals on Wheels say it appreciates anyone who can step up and help in any way. It not only benefits clients, but it allows you to bring joy and services to those who need it most.
“I would encourage everyone to find somewhere to volunteer,” Gilliland said, “because it will be the most rewarding thing that you do.”
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